Description
This Easy Cilantro Lime Rice recipe offers a flavorful and vibrant side dish featuring fluffy long-grain white rice infused with fresh cilantro and zesty lime juice. Perfect for complementing Mexican, Tex-Mex, or any southwestern-inspired meals, this simple and quick rice recipe brings a refreshing twist to a staple dish with minimal ingredients and straightforward preparation.
Ingredients
Scale
Rice Base
- 1 cup Long-Grain White Rice (Rinse under cold water to remove excess starch.)
- 2 cups Water (Essential for cooking the rice.)
- 1 teaspoon Salt (Adjust according to taste.)
Flavorings
- 1/2 cup Fresh Cilantro (Finely chopped, adds vibrant flavor.)
- 1 lime Fresh Lime Juice (Adds zesty tang; freshly squeezed is preferred.)
- 1 tablespoon Olive Oil (Helps keep the rice from sticking together.)
Instructions
- Rinse the Rice: Rinse the rice under cold water in a fine-mesh strainer until the water runs clear to remove excess starch, then drain well to ensure fluffy cooked rice.
- Combine Ingredients: In a medium saucepan, add the rinsed rice, water, and salt. Stir gently to combine all ingredients evenly.
- Bring to Boil: Place the saucepan over medium-high heat and bring the mixture to a rolling boil, ensuring even heating.
- Simmer the Rice: Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the saucepan with a lid, and let the rice simmer for 18-20 minutes without lifting the lid to retain steam.
- Rest the Rice: Remove the saucepan from heat and let it sit, still covered, for an additional 5 minutes to finish steaming and develop texture.
- Fluff and Oil: Fluff the cooked rice gently with a fork to separate grains, then drizzle with olive oil, tossing gently to coat and prevent sticking.
- Add Cilantro and Lime: Stir in the chopped fresh cilantro and freshly squeezed lime juice to infuse the rice with bright, fresh flavors.
- Season and Serve: Taste the rice and adjust seasoning if necessary. Serve the cilantro lime rice warm as a vibrant side dish to your favorite meals.
Notes
- Rinsing the rice removes excess starch, preventing clumping and producing fluffier rice.
- Do not lift the lid during simmering to avoid losing steam, which is essential for properly cooked rice.
- Freshly squeezed lime juice adds a better flavor compared to bottled varieties.
- Olive oil not only prevents sticking but adds a subtle richness to the dish.
- This rice pairs wonderfully with Mexican, Tex-Mex, grilled seafood, or chicken dishes.
